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Okonkwo’s Full Speech After Dumping Peter Obi

A former spokesman for the opposition Labour Party presidential campaign council, Kenneth Okonkwo has dumped the party.

Okonkwo said he decided to leave the party after its former presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, failed to solve the party’s internal crisis.

Okonkwo Full Speech

I am committed, irreversibly, to a great Nigeria built on equity, justice, and fairness, where every citizen will be free and able to aspire to any position or level in life without regard to primordial sentiments built around ethnicity, religion, sex, or circumstances of birth.

It’s obvious that the APC or PDP, as presently constituted, do not have what it takes to lead us to a great Nigeria. Indeed their combined leadership is trying to cripple Nigeria as this blessed country is now down economically, politically, and in every other index, leaving the people with no other option than to protest for their survival. They can see no hope for the future.

Unfortunately, by our Constitution, we need a solid political party with solid grassroot base to be able to wrestle power from these kakistocrats and kleptocrats. We, therefore, need a decisive leader who will be able to build such a party of integrity and character from the grassroots because eventually, majority of the people that will populate a government will eventually proceed from the political party of the leader. A party is like a political tree that produces the fruit of the leadership cadre in government. A corrupt tree will never birth good fruits no matter the integrity and good intentions of the leader. Nigeria problems today come from lack of internal democracy in the parties which become a breeding ground for the production of incompetent and corrupt leaders in government.

We also need a decisive leader who will be selfless enough, in boldness and bravery, to secure our victory, when the people vote for such leader, because these corrupt and incompetent leaders are not willing to conduct free and fair elections and will always grab, snatch power from any weak and indecisive leader, and run away with it. Our judiciary has not proved to be equal to the task in preventing the emergence of electoral bandits who steal electoral victories at gunpoint in the public glare of everyone.

I am ernestly searching for such a leader who has the integrity and also the commensurate charisma and bravery to mobilise the people to sustain the victory, in the event that Nigeria votes for such a person. The time for calm down is over.

I recall how we suffered and risked all to liberate Nigeria from the shackles of these kakistocrats and kleptocrats in 2023 only for the victory to be stolen. It is obvious that the judiciary will not give us democracy because of abuse of the judicial process. The people must take their destiny in their hands. They must be willing to vote the right person as the President and must be willing to fight to ensure that the person is sworn in as President. However, the person must be willing to be in the forefront of such endeavour. The suffering Nigerians are going through now from the people they didn’t vote for, but who snatched power, cannot be allowed to continue. These people will still remain in power come 2027 unless a decisive leader emerges to stop them with the votes of the people.

What is happening in Labour Party today has inspired in me a determination to chart a new course for my political journey. After the 2023 general election, Nigerians, including me, had high hopes on Labour Party. I believed that Peter Obi will seize the momentum and build a solid party of integrity that will have the solid base that we need to overthrow these kakistocrats and kleptocrats. He just needed to give the right directives and everyone will fall in line.

I received my first shock when he publicly declared that he didn’t promise Nigerians to build a strong Labour Party, but to solve Nigeria problems. I was like, does it mean HE Peter Obi is not aware that without a solid party base, we are heading to no where politically?

However, I continued in his defence believing he will still privately bring the needed solution to LP problems. to no avail.

PO also publicly demanded that the Abure led National Working Committee must organise an all inclusive convention that will guarantee the participation of all members of Labour Party in the choice of their leaders. This didn’t happen, and surprisingly, PO refused to disassociate himself from the shenanigans and criminal activities of the former NWC as their time has expired. Every member of Labour Party is confused today as to the future of Labour Party because of lack of leadership from PO over the party, and unfortunately, when they look up to me to tell them about PO’s standpoint, I sincerely have nothing to tell them because I don’t know myself. I cannot continue to speak on behalf of a leader that I do not know his stand on issues of great importance. I simply don’t know how to manipulate facts.

I am shocked that PO could not openly support the noble efforts of the Labour Unions who founded the Labour Party as a base to fight for the welfare of workers to the extent that some of them are openly saying that PO is now the problem of LP. The Labour Unions now have the unfortunate situation where they are fighting criminals who want to hijack their party when an ordinary statement from PO would have brought the solution. I cannot continue with this ambivalence forever.

I am of course in full support of the Labour Unions and other stakeholders who are now compelled to fight for the soul of LP without the support of PO.

However, the consequence is that I no longer have the confidence that PO has what it takes to build a party that can win these kakistocrats and kleptocrats, and above all, he has proved that even if the people vote for him, he doesn’t have what it takes to secure the mandate. I don’t intend to embark on such a campaign as we did in 2023, projecting a person who cannot sustain the victory even if he wins.

It’s in this regard that I have decided to continue my political journey into the great Nigeria of our vision without Peter Obi. I am always 100% loyal to a leader whenever I am working or following the leader. At anytime I have doubts within me that I can no longer offer 100% loyalty to him, I will respectfully let everyone know. When I joined myself to his campaign, I made it public, now that I cannot guarantee my support for his future political aspirations, I believe I owe it to everyone to let everyone know.

This has nothing to do with any desire to join APC or PDP. I will perpetually be joined to the Nigerian people and their aspirations for a new, better, and great Nigeria.

There’s also absolutely nothing personal with my decision to adjust my relationship with HE Peter Obi. It’s 100% based on principles and my conviction that I need a more decisive, bold, brave leader with integrity and team spirit who can confront these kakistocrats and kleptocrats head on. I will continue to respect him and cherish the periods we worked together.

With this declaration, I am free to embark on negotiation and consultation with every like minded people to determine the next step in my political journey, which does not include joining APC or PDP for now, but includes, and not limited to consolidation of Labour Party.

Nigeria must regain its greatness, whether the kakistocrats and kleptocrats like it or not.

Protest is a democratic right of the people. Nobody should prevent the people from protesting, even as the protesters should endeavour to be peaceful. The government must deploy all its wisdom and exercise extreme restraint in the management of the protest of the people. The best method of avoiding protest is good governance. With bad governance, protest is inevitable.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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Kaduna refinery to be ready by the end of year 2024 – KRPC MD Sogungun

KRPC

The Managing Director of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), Dr. Mustafa Sugungun, has announced that the ongoing Quick Fix Project for the Kaduna Refinery is on track to be completed by the end of 2024.

This ambitious project is part of a $741 million contract awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to South Korea’s Daewoo Engineering & Construction, aimed at revitalizing the refinery.

Under the terms of the contract, Daewoo will restore the 110,000-barrel-per-day refinery to at least 60% of its operational capacity by the project’s conclusion.

Speaking at the commissioning of two Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives—the renovated Rido Community Primary School and a solar-powered borehole in Maraban Rido, Kaduna State—Dr. Sugungun reaffirmed KRPC’s commitment to uplifting the living standards of its host communities.Represented by the Manager of Operations, Mr. Emmanuel Ajiboye, Dr. Sugungun highlighted the broader economic implications of the Quick Fix Project.

According to him, once completed, the project will not only revitalize refinery operations but also generate significant economic benefits, including job creation, enhanced petty trading, and the growth of local businesses in the region.

The CSR initiatives commissioned alongside this announcement reflect KRPC’s dedication to sustainable community development.

The renovation of Rido Community Primary School is designed to provide a more conducive learning environment for pupils and teachers, while the solar-powered borehole addresses the critical issue of water scarcity in the community.

Dr. Sugungun emphasized KRPC’s broader efforts toward sustainable development through programs such as youth empowerment, rural electrification, periodic medical outreach, and other community-centered initiatives.

He also called on the Rido community to support the ongoing Quick Fix Project, emphasizing that its success would further strengthen the bond between KRPC and its host communities.

In her remarks, the Head Teacher of Rido Primary School, Mrs. Rachael Aduwak, expressed gratitude for the company’s intervention, describing it as a much-needed relief for the school.

However, she appealed to KRPC for additional support, including the construction of a perimeter fence and the provision of classroom furniture such as tables, chairs, and chalkboards.

She lamented that many students are currently forced to sit on bare floors during lessons, which undermines their learning experience.

The dual focus on large-scale infrastructure development and grassroots community support underscores KRPC’s commitment to driving positive change at both economic and social levels in Kaduna State.

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“Affordable Food for All: Muslim Scholars Open Market of Convenience in Lagos

Some Muslim scholars under the umbrella of the League of Islamic Leaders in Mushin, Lagos, have launched an initiative called the Market of Convenience (MFC) to sell foodstuffs and essential commodities at reduced prices.

This innovative approach aims to alleviate the economic challenges facing residents of Lagos, especially within the Muslim community.

The establishment of the MFC was highlighted during a one-day sensitization programme held on Sunday in Lagos.

The event emphasized the importance of affordable food markets and encouraged Muslims to embrace this initiative. The Convener and Chairman of the MFC, Alhaji Musoddiq Sanni, underscored the market’s role as a practical solution to the escalating cost of living and a demonstration of the community’s commitment to easing economic hardships.

Sanni explained that the Muslim community introduced the MFC as a strategic response to Nigeria’s economic challenges.

“This market serves as an alternative where residents can shop for essential food items at affordable prices,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the MFC would significantly reduce the financial burden on Lagos residents, aligning with the Islamic principles of justice and fairness in commerce. “Allah has commanded us in the Qur’an to maintain justice and fairness during business transactions,” he added.

The chairman also advocated for the expansion of the initiative, urging Muslim leaders in Ikeja and other parts of Lagos to establish branches of the market.

By doing so, he noted, more communities could benefit from affordable food items, further strengthening efforts to combat economic hardship.

Sanni also emphasized the importance of cooperative societies in ensuring the sustainability of the market.

To ensure compliance with Islamic laws, the League of Islamic Leaders plans to develop a blueprint for the market’s operation in conformity with Sharia principles.

He revealed that the MFC has been registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission and the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, demonstrating the seriousness of the initiative.Alhaji Sulaimon Olanijo, Chairman of the League of Islamic Leaders in Mushin, called on other Muslim groups to support the MFC initiative.

He emphasized that such markets would not only reduce the economic difficulties faced by Muslims but also contribute to the Federal Government’s agenda on food security.

Similarly, the Chairman of the Council of Imams, Ikeja Division, Alhaji Abdul-Rahmon Abdul-Azeez, praised the initiative, stating that it was a timely intervention.

He acknowledged the rising cost of foodstuffs and expressed confidence that the MFC could significantly mitigate the financial struggles of Nigerians.

With cooperation from Muslim leaders and other stakeholders, the MFC could potentially be replicated across various communities, promoting economic fairness and reducing hardship nationwide.

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I could have been a drug addict—Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that an attempt to embrace smoking as a young man could have led him down a destructive path, stating, “I could have become addicted.”

Obasanjo made the disclosure on Sunday during the Fly Above The High anti-drug campaign conference held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Obasanjo, who admitted he once attempted smoking, claimed that his inability to tolerate it saved him from a path of potential addiction.

“If I had persisted, I could have become addicted. Once you get involved, it is difficult to get out,” Obasanjo said.

The former president also spoke on the troubling rise of drug abuse in West Africa, a problem he said he encountered firsthand as Chairman of the West African Drug Commission under the Kofi Annan Foundation.

Obasanjo stated that members of the commission crisscrossed West Africa with the belief that the region was free from drugs, which he said came mainly from Latin America and go to North America and Europe.

“But to our dismay, displeasure, and pain, at the end of the exercise, we found out that West Africa has equally been a centre for drug consumption in a very bad way,” he added.

“That was more than 10 years ago, so the situation has since gone worse. And whatever applies to West Africa applies to all other parts of Africa.”

The former president, however, warned Nigerian youths to steer clear of psychoactive drugs, adding that “There’s nothing drug can do for you except destruction.”

He also urged those already addicted to psychoactive drugs to seek help and warned the society against stigmatisation.

In 2023, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency reported that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians are involved in drug abuse.

The agency said 14.3 million Nigerian drug abusers are within the age range of 15 and 64 years, adding that more women are now involved.

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International Friendly: Madugu invites Nnadozie, Ohale, Plumptre, 17 others for France

Head Coach Justine Madugu has called up CAF Awards nominee, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defenders Osinachi Ohale and Ashleigh Plumptre, midfielders Christy Ucheibe and Jennifer Echegini, and forwards Gift Monday and Rinsola Babajide among a list of 20 players for Saturday’s international friendly match against the Les Bleues of France.

US-based defender Michelle Alozie, Turkey-based Oluwatosin Demehin, midfielder Adoo Yina and forwards Mercy Omokwo and Ifeoma Onumonu are also invited to the encounter scheduled for the Stade Raymond Kopa in the city of Angers, with kick-off set for 9.30pm France time.

Midfield lubricator Toni Payne, now with Everton Ladies in England, as well as Rofiat Imuran and Shukurat Oladipo – who both starred for the Falconets at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia in September – will also fly to France for the big match.

Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, who is also a CAF Awards nominee, is out as a result of injury.

While the Bleues are happy to take the game as part of their preparations for the League of Nations in the spring and the 2025 UEFA Euro Women Championship in Switzerland in the summer, the Falcons will welcome the encounter as part of the process for blooding a new squad, as well as another test ahead of the 2025 Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next summer.

Already pitched with Tunisia, Algeria and Botswana in Group B of the Africa Cup final tournament, Madugu will be grateful for the stern test that the Les Bleues will provide for his nine-time African champions in Angers.

All the invited players will fly directly to France for the match, to be joined by the coaching crew and backroom staff.

SUPER FALCONS FOR LES BLEUES CHALLENGE:

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC, France); Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels); Rachael Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)

Defenders: Osinachi Ohale (Pachucha Club de Futbol, Mexico); Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash, USA); Ashleigh Plumptre (Ittihad Ladies, Saudi Arabia); Rofiat Imuran (London City Lioness, England); Sikiratu Isah (Nasarawa Amazons); Oluwatosin Demehin (Galatasaray Sportive, Turkey)

Midfielders: Jennifer Echegini (Paris Saint Germain, France); Toni Payne (Everton Ladies, England); Josephine Mathias (Nasarawa Amazons); Christy Ucheibe (SL Benfica, Portugal); Shukurat Oladipo (FC Robo Queens); Adoo Yina (Nasarawa Amazons)

Forwards: Blessing Nkor (Pyramids FC, Egypt); Gift Monday (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa (Spain); Ifeoma Onumonu (Montpellier FC, France); Omorinsola Babajide (Coasta Adeje Tenerife Egatesa (Spain); Mercy Omokwo (Bayelsa Queens) 

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Contactless Passport Application System app usage commences December 1st

The usage of the Contactless Passport Application System app commences December 1st, 2024

The usage of the Contactless Passport Application System app would commence on the 1st of December, 2024.

The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) announced this in an update it provided on its official X account on Sunday evening.

“The Contactless Passport Application System app is now available on Google Play store as “NIS Mobile”,” NIS announced.

“Please remember that the worldwide usage would commence from the 1st of December, 2024.”

According to the statement, the current Geo-fencing feature means it is only available for use by Nigerians in Canada and the United States of America (USA).

The Federal Government, meanwhile recently partnered with the United Kingdom (UK) to strengthen security in Nigeria and also work on a lasting contactless biometrics solution.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this in a statement on his official X account after meeting with the Home Secretary of the UK, Rt Hon Yvette Cooper early November.

Tunji-Ojo said the FG’s commitment to building strategic partnerships that enhance security and public service delivery was reinforced after the meeting.

“We discussed mutual goals to strengthen security, efficiency, and service delivery, showing our administration’s dedication to sustainable development through cooperation and shared purpose,” he said.

“In line with our initiative to extend contactless biometrics solution to the UK, having successfully launched in Canada with impressive success rate, I also led senior officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on an oversight visit to the Nigeria High Commission.”

According to Tunji-Ojo, the visit reaffirms the federal government’s support for the attachés working to improve their services to Nigerians abroad.

The NIS decided to implement the contactless biometric solution process for passports and visa applications to ease challenges associated with the process and curb corruption.

Tunji-Ojo while presenting a scorecard of his achievements within one year in office had explained that the contactless biometric system allows applicants to apply for passports or visas from the comfort of their homes or offices.

He added that they would do this without visiting any passport office, particularly for Nigeria’s consulates, where the number of applications often exceeds the daily capture capacity.

“With the contactless biometric solution, you won’t need to go to the embassies to book an appointment anymore because of the new system,” the minister explained.

“The era of resource wastage in the passport process is over. In Canada, for example, over 16,000 applications are received as against 260 captures per day.”

Tunji-Ojo was joined in the meeting with the UK Home Secretary, Cooper by key Nigerian officials including the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap and the Controller General of Fire Service, Engr. Abdulganiyu Olola Jaji.

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Dangote reduces N20 from petrol price, sells to marketers at n970/litre

Dangote Petroleum Refinery on Sunday announced a N20 reduction in the ex-refinery price to marketers, with prices moving from N990 to N970 per litre.

The Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer of the Dangote Group, Anthony Chiejina, disclosed the new pricing in a statement, describing the development as a gesture of appreciation to Nigerians and the government for their unwavering support.

With the drop in the price of crude oil, the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) should slightly decrease, given that crude oil is a major determinant of the eventual price of petroleum products.

“As the year comes to an end, this is our way of appreciating the good people of Nigeria for their unwavering support in making the refinery a dream come true. In addition, this is to thank the government for their support, as this will complement the measures put in place to encourage domestic enterprise for our collective well-being,” Chiejina said.

The refinery, which commenced operations earlier this year, has been pivotal in reshaping Nigeria’s downstream petroleum landscape.

Chiejina assured that the Dangote Refinery would continue to maintain stringent quality standards for its products while working to address Nigeria’s fuel supply challenges.

“We are determined to keep ramping up production to meet and surpass our domestic fuel consumption, thus dispelling any fear of a shortfall in supply,” he added.

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